Matt Waters

Matt Waters is the owner and head instructor of Stride Martial Arts and Fitness in Excelsior Springs, Missouri. A Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Black Belt under James Krause, Matt has been training since 2009 and brings over 15 years of experience in BJJ and MMA to his students.

Matt holds an undefeated 3-0 amateur MMA record and has trained under one of Missouri’s most respected coaches. His passion for martial arts began when he experienced firsthand how BJJ and fitness training can build discipline, confidence, and mental toughness — qualities he now works to develop in every student.

After successfully running an MMA gym in Gladstone, Matt opened Stride Martial Arts and Fitness near his hometown of Orrick to bring high-quality martial arts training to Excelsior Springs, Kearney, Liberty, and surrounding communities.

As a father of two daughters (ages 3 and 6) who have recently started training in jiu-jitsu themselves, Matt is dedicated to creating a welcoming, family-friendly environment where beginners feel comfortable and serious students are challenged to grow. He leads Kids Jiu-Jitsu, Adult Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, and Fitness Kickboxing classes.